Digital Accessibility of Websites

Digital Accessibility of Websites

Accessibility is an everyday issue that everyone encounters in their daily lives. However, most people don’t consciously perceive it, as it doesn’t directly affect them. It is only when we experience the first direct encounters with accessibility issues in our own daily routines that we become aware of what it means for those affected when accessibility is not considered.

The public space has been changing for years, and more and more attention is being paid to the needs of affected individuals. For example, sidewalks are equipped with guide paths for visually impaired people. People are assisted when visiting government offices, elevators are continually added to public transportation access, and stages are built at concerts so that wheelchair users can also enjoy an unobstructed view of their favorite artists. This list could go on indefinitely, highlighting all the efforts being made to improve accessibility.

We now focus on another public space: the internet. While it is accessible to everyone, not all individuals can currently navigate it or use all services. Accessibility is still not fully considered in many offerings. Access to the internet must be made barrier-free, just as it is in public spaces. Only then can we continue to integrate our diverse society into everyday life. After all, approximately 20% of the world’s population belongs to this group.

For this reason, we decided to join the IAAP (International Association of Accessibility Professionals) and dedicate more focus to this issue in our work. In this article, we provide an insight into why accessibility on the World Wide Web is important, what needs to be considered, and what legal requirements must be followed. We also look at the advantages for website operators who take accessibility into account.

Why is Accessibility Important on the Internet?

We see our society as open and diverse. No one should be excluded, and we aim to provide equal internet access to all individuals. When developing applications, it is essential to consider all user groups equally and ensure social inclusion. The typical user groups are often more diverse than initially assumed. Applications must always take into account older adults, people with physical disabilities, and those facing language barriers.

In public spaces, this has been happening for some time, and our society has defined it as a fundamental human right. However, there is still significant room for improvement in the World Wide Web. In addition to the social aspects, there are other benefits, and in the future, accessibility for online applications will be legally required. Failure to comply could result in significant penalties from lawmakers. The EU has drafted a law that will come into effect in 2025.

What Benefits Does Accessibility Bring?

The most important factor is the accessibility of your website for all user groups. You can reach more potential customers and gain a competitive advantage. User satisfaction increases, and your content reaches a larger group of users. At the same time, it leads to rewards from search engines, as Google and other search engines can find your online presence more easily and reward the resulting improved user experience.

By making these improvements, you strengthen your position in public perception and become a pioneer for an accessible internet. You comply with legal requirements before they come into effect and demonstrate social responsibility without compromising profitability. You reach people with disabilities and can highlight your services under the aspect of employer branding. This gives you a significant opportunity to attract more customers and appeal to untapped talent.

Tips for Accessibility in Web Applications

1. All elements that are not text should have an additional description, called “alt text.”
2. Media should also be provided with alternative text, such as audio or video files.
3. Content must be structured so that it remains easily identifiable even when contrast settings are changed.
4. The perception of content and the distinction between foreground and background should be made easier for all users.
5. All functionalities must be operable via keyboard. Links and forms must be accessible through a keyboard interface.
6. If websites display changing images or require input within a specific time frame, the intervals or time limits must allow for slower response times.
7. Content should not trigger epileptic seizures. Animations or videos should not flicker or contain flickering shapes. If necessary, a warning should be displayed before accessing the website.
8. Navigation within a website must be designed efficiently, especially for keyboard and screen reader users. A clear and unambiguous structure must be ensured.
9. Text should be easy to read and understandable. Simple language and text formatting for screen readers should be used.
10. A simple and consistent design is important to support people with learning disabilities.
11. Error messages in forms or other input fields should be clearly described and displayed.
12. Standard code should be used to ensure compatibility with assistive technologies.

Guidelines and Organizations

The EU Accessibility Directive, Directive 2016/2102, regulates the accessible access to websites of public bodies. Additionally, the 2019 revised BITV (Barrier-Free Information Technology Ordinance 2.0) summarizes the requirements under national law. In general, all public institutions are already required to make their websites accessible according to the Disability Equality Act.

The Barrier-Free Access Strengthening Act (BFSG) will come into effect at the end of June 2025. This law will require companies to implement accessibility in various areas, such as online commerce and telecommunications services. From then on, websites and online shops must also be accessible. Companies that fail to comply will face penalties. There is still time to make your website accessible in accordance with legal requirements.

Legal Requirements

From June 28, 2025, a new legal obligation for accessibility will come into effect, and this applies to all websites and apps. For many website operators, this will require significant additional effort unless they address the requirements now and include them in their budget planning.

The basis is the European standard EN 301 549, which largely aligns with international guidelines for accessible web content. This is regulated by the Barrier-Free Access Strengthening Act (BFSG). The BFSG implements the European Accessibility Act (EAA).

In general, all online shops need to prepare for this, even though there will be a transition period initially covering only services launched after the specified date. All offerings should be adjusted to ensure that everyone has access to the services provided.

Conclusion

The issue of website accessibility is no longer just a nice-to-have. All public institutions have been required to consider this issue in their online presence for years. By June 28, 2025, this will also apply to all other operators. Even though the focus may be on new offerings, it is wise to also consider accessibility for existing services. For future relaunches, every website operator should take this into account and ensure that the necessary expertise is available when choosing a service provider.

Inclusion is the modern way to ensure that no one is excluded and that everyone can access your services. This might even help you reach a new target audience, while also representing modern entrepreneurship. Fulfill your obligations today and gain this competitive advantage before market regulators take notice of your offering.